Eileen Blanket

Eileen Blanket by ChristaCoDesign

What Is Being Made

The Eileen Blanket is a beginner-friendly crochet throw blanket designed by ChristaCoDesign. This finished blanket measures 32 inches by 35 inches, making it an ideal size for a cozy lap throw or decorative bed accent. The pattern features a two-color design that creates visual interest and dimension through strategic color placement.

Crochet Techniques Used

This blanket employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for crafters new to the craft. The pattern uses foundation single crochet to establish the base chain, which provides a more flexible and professional-looking foundation edge compared to traditional chain stitches. Rows are constructed using turning chains, with the pattern noting that the turning chain counts as a single crochet stitch. Stitch markers are recommended during the initial rows to help identify and work into the turning chain accurately, a common challenge for beginners.

Stitches Used

The Eileen Blanket incorporates several essential crochet stitches:

• Single Crochet (sc) - Forms the foundation and primary structure of the blanket
• Double Crochet (dc) - Adds texture and height variation to the design
• Chain Stitch (ch) - Creates openwork elements and turning chains between rows
• Slip Stitch (sl st) - Used for joining and finishing
• Wattle Stitch - A decorative stitch combination unique to this pattern, created by working a single crochet, chain, and double crochet all into the same stitch, then skipping two stitches. This creates a distinctive textured pattern throughout the blanket

Materials and Tools

The Eileen Blanket pattern requires approximately 1500 yards of DK weight yarn. The designer used Bernat Softee Baby Cotton in two colors: Feather Gray (Color A) and Soft Plum (Color B). DK weight yarn, also known as #3 lightweight yarn, is an ideal choice for blankets as it provides a balance between drape and structure while remaining workable for beginners.

The pattern calls for a 4 mm (G) size crochet hook, which is the standard hook size for DK weight yarn and ensures proper stitch definition and fabric consistency. Additional tools needed include a yarn needle for weaving in ends, a measuring tape for checking dimensions and adjusting the blanket size, scissors for cutting yarn, and stitch markers to assist with identifying turning chains during the initial rows of work.

Pattern Structure and Customization

The blanket is constructed using a stitch multiple of 3 plus 2 for the foundation chain, which allows for flexibility in adjusting the width if desired. The pattern includes guidance on how to modify the dimensions, making it adaptable for crafters who want to create a larger or smaller throw. The border is included in the finished measurements of 32 inches by 35 inches.